by Kim Clarkin
One of the largest irrigated farming ventures in South Africa's Limpopo province to be owned by a local traditional council has just been handed over to the Ikageng community.
Strydkraal covers nearly 400ha and is situated in the Sekhukhune district of Limpopo about 70km south-east of Marble Hall.
The R24 million project was designed and implemented by MBB Consulting Engineers and will be managed in conjunction with a strategic partner and funded by the Limpopo Department of Agriculture (LDA).
The 300ha new section of Strydkraal is a combination of old fallow land, and new land that has been cleared. The farm includes 94ha already under irrigation which produces maize in summer and potatoes in winter.
A total of 14 centre-pivot irrigation systems have been installed with coverage from 11ha to 40ha. The project also involve the installation of surface drainage and bulk water supply pipes, and the construction of two pump stations.
Members of the community working on the farm will be able to share in its profits and learn farming skills
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October 17, 2011
Irrigation to help South Africa’s emerging farmers
Categories irrigation, South Africa